Coral reefs, lovely sandy beaches, and terrifying fauna all come to mind when we think of Australia. But there’s more to learn about this small island nation. If you want to study in Australia, you should learn about the country’s culture, gastronomy, history, and social customs. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a pickle or face unpleasant shocks.
There may be a few items your advisor may have overlooked in your pre-departure orientation packet when you choose to study in Australia. There’s a lot you should know about Australia before hopping on a plane to the country down under. Read the article to get started.
1. You need a student visa.
You will require a visa to study in Australia for more than three months. The application procedure is straightforward. It’s all done online, and it’s all linked to your passport, so there’s no need to go to the embassy or wait for it to arrive in the mail. The cost, however, is substantial, so be prepared! If you’re only studying for three months, you should be able to get an ordinary visitor visa and save a lot of money.
2. You need to get health insurance.
Make certain you investigate this. It may be included in a study abroad program, but if you are studying directly with a university, you will almost certainly be needed to obtain health insurance in Australia.
Overseas Student Health Cover is required by the Australian government for all international students (OSHC). Because insurers provide a variety of OSHC programs, you’ll want to make sure you sign up for one that meets your needs. Here, you may learn more about OSHC and see a list of suppliers. Remember to check in with your study abroad program to make sure you’re up to date on everything.
3. You should recognise that jet lag is a real thing.
Between Australia and the Americas, there is a significant time difference. If you arrive early, force yourself to remain up all day (and, ideally, explore!). Go to bed if you arrive late at night. It’s best to get into your new time zone as soon as possible.
After the initial jet lag has passed, you’ll be left with the difficult task of finding a convenient time to contact your friends and family back home! To minimise misunderstandings, make sure you specify the time/date in both your and their time zones when suggesting a Skype date.
4. You should know that Australia is an expensive place to live in.
Sydney and Melbourne are frequently included in the top ten lists of the most expensive cities in the world. Prepare for sticker shock when it comes to anything from housing to groceries, and make sure you have plenty of cash on hand.
Make a budget and try to keep to it as much as possible. Our experts recommend spending an additional $6,000-$7,000 for living expenditures, not including tuition, lodging, and board. Add them in the Go Overseas’ helpful guide to the costs of studying abroad in Australia. If that number astounds you, learn how to study abroad in Australia on a shoestring budget.
5. You must learn about the country’s changing seasons.
If you travel to Australia during the summer in the northern hemisphere, for example, you will arrive in the middle of winter. And despite the thoughts of sunshine and beaches that may be floating around in your head, it will become cold if you are studying in one of the main southern cities (such as Sydney or Melbourne). Make sure you have everything you need.
6. You should know a little background of the country.
When it comes to stereotypes, do your research on Australia before deciding to study there. What is the capital of Australia, for example? Canberra, Australia! Do your homework to be a respectful and well-informed guest, and wow your host nation folks by knowing a little more than the average Australian.
Regardless of any study abroad program you choose, you will undoubtedly experience Australia’s well-known laid-back attitude, reverence for nature, and infectious good vibes.
7. You should know their grading system.
If you are going to get Australian grades, it’s a good idea to learn what they mean. A “D” is a very good grade! The grading system used by most Australian universities is HD (High Distinction), D (Distinction), C (Credit), P (Pass), and F (Fail). Don’t be alarmed if you earn your first “D”!
8. You may work while studying in Australia.
Do you recall the exorbitant student visa you had to pay for? You can, however, recoup your investment! In Australia, most student visas enable you to work a set number of hours per week. Given Australia’s high minimum salary, it might be well worth it.
When you study and work in Australia, you will meet new people in your new town.
9. You need to open a bank account.
If you’re spending a semester or more in Australia, it may well be worth opening an Australian bank account. You can avoid the ridiculous fees you would likely face drawing out money with your home bank (and anywhere you can save a little bit of money will be well needed!), and some Australian bank accounts have a decent interest rate. This would be useful if you did decide to take on some part-time work.
10. You need to think about where to study.
On your study abroad trip to Australia, you can choose from a wide variety of destinations. Do you prefer the city or the countryside? Do you want to spend all of your leisure time at the beach (OK, pretty much everywhere in Australia!), or would you rather head out into “the bush”? Depending on what you study, certain regions may be better for you.
If want to study in a professional learning environment, London College might be a suitable fit. We have developed ways to provide students with various learning options and explore prospects to continue their education at some of Australia’s top universities. Many of our students want to stay in Australia to further their education.
Are you ready to study in Australia?
Knowing some facts about studying in Australia will make your study abroad heaps better. With a little preparation, you will have a great time in class and maybe enjoy some snags and stubbies on the beach on the weekend.
If you want to learn more about the courses that we offer at London College, feel free to talk to our friendly staff by calling 0431 205 313 today!
